England's World Cup Qualification To Benefit Bookmakers

Sports betting turnover in excess of £1 billion predicted after England book place in World Cup finals.

A billion-pound betting whirlwind has been sparked by England's qualification for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, according to a gambling specialist.

England beat Croatia 5-1 on Wednesday (September 9th) in an entertaining match that saw six goals scored, with Steven Gerard netting twice to take the team into South Africa.

Following the result, online betting specialist OLBG.co.uk claimed that the country's sports betting firms could witness their turnover soar to over £1 billion.

"Bookies are feeling the pinch just like everyone else and after a few bad results this year, they're praying England go all the way to the final," said OLBG chief executive Antony Portno.

"The World Cup could be the first betting event to break the £1 billion barrier. It'll be like the Grand National every day for a month for the bookies."

Research conducted by the firm shows that smaller online bookmakers will also benefit from the World Cup, with "the biggest payouts in history" expected if England lift the cup.